Maine Family Holiday Activities Christmas Tree Santa Festivities Craft Train Community
The spirit of Christmas brings communities together for some truly unforgettable Maine events. Gather the family together and join the celebrations. From town Christmas tree lightings, train rides, and parades, to hay rides and bon fires on the beach there is something for everyone. This guide lists picturesque events in every corner of the state so summon some holiday cheer and enjoy the season as a family.Rockland Festival of LightsEnjoy a terrific display at the downtown parade of lights. The village Christmas tree lighting, and Santa's Workshop. Tour historic inns. Let the children greet Santa at the public landing who arrives via an extra special escort, the Coast Guard. Become more familiar with this jolly old soul at the family pancake breakfast and other child-friendly activities. Slip a note into Santa's mailbox, join the choir of carolers, and peruse some of Maine's greatest talent during gallery night. Complete the festivities in style with an exciting horse-drawn carriage ride.Ogunquit Christmas by the SeaJoin this annual celebration in true beach style on the shores of Ogunquit Maine. Attend the community tree lighting and join in a chorus of Christmas carols. Treat the family to a warm and comforting meal at the traditional chowder and chocolate festival. Take in local talents, do a bit of shopping in village shops or the craft fair, and pose for pictures with Santa. Get some fresh air and enjoy the crackle of roaring flame beside a bonfire on the beach.Kennebunkport Christmas PreludeBegin the Christmas season early with over a week of family fun. Beginning December 2 and running through December 12 the Kennebunkport Christmas prelude is pack full of events to attend. Enjoy a community fish chowder supper. Adults can enjoy fine arts and craft shows. Get little ones involved in the holiday hat parade and children's movie night, or entertain teens with trolley rides and music concerts. No community celebration would be complete without the town Christmas tree lighting at Dock Square, and the arrival of Santa clause by boat. Do not miss out on a uniquely Maine tradition at the lobster trap tree lighting in Cape Porpoise.Boothbay Harbor Festival of TreesTake part in a unique tradition, the silent Christmas tree auction located at the Opera House. Peruse the boutique for decorations, get a delicious treat at Santa's Sweet Shop and bid on the perfect tree for your home without the fuss. Enjoy the breathtaking, 28th annual Harbor Lights Festival harbor lights festival and introduce the kids to Mr. and Mr. Claus and a whole crew of cheerful elves. Mr. Moose and the Christmas Lobster will also make appearances.Saco Festival of TreesWander through a delightful forest at the Saco Museum. View dozens of tastefully decorated wreaths and trees. As a family, choose a favorite to bid on through the Gala on Saturday 13th. Alternatively, create your own tree and enter the competition. Purchase handcrafted ornaments and stockings to enjoy for years to come. Witness the Christmas tree lighting, and entertain the little ones on Children's Craft Day. Meet Santa to deliver ever-important wish lists, or peruse the gingerbread village.Freeport Northern Lights CelebrationJoin the nationally renowned L.L. Bean holiday celebration through the entire month of December. Boasting free parking, product demonstrations, child-friendly crafts, Santa photos, and even horse drawn carriage ride, this is one event not to miss. Do some holiday shopping and entertain the family all under one roof. Start the season off right with the gorgeous parade of lights. Attend the beautiful Freeport Sparkle Weekend December 3 through December 5. Little ones will find endless amusement with the Talking Christmas Tree, Hot Chocolate, Old Fashioned Carriage rides, and local craft fair.Sunday River Santa SundayAttend the 11th annual Sunday River Santa Sunday festivities on December 5 in Newry. With all proceeds going to a local charity, you just cannot beat free skiing and rides for the children. Meet Santa and donate to a good cause. Registration begins early so do not delay.Bar Harbor Village Holidays and Midnight MadnessTwo annual events collide to produce an entire day of family fun. Welcome Santa on the Village Green on December 3 at 5pm. Take photos, and participate in a wide variety of activities for all ages. Continue with the 10th Annual Midnight Madness Sale. Bring the teens along for an eve of sharp discounts and fun shopping. Enjoy food, music, and drink while choosing the ultimate holiday finds. Downtown shops stay open for the even from 8pm until midnight.New Gloucester Shaker Christmas FairJoin a traditional community Christmas with age-old roots at the New Gloucester Shaker Village on December 4 beginning at 10 am. The celebration sprawls over ten rooms in the historic Trustees Office and Merry Christmas Garage. Enjoy trying delicious Shaker baked goods, cheese, and pickles. Browse homemade items, and listen to delightful stories come alive in the book room. View holiday wreaths, oval boxes, herbs, and yarns. In addition, browse an entire room full of White Elephant bargains.Bath Candy Cane TrainRush to the Bath Train Station and climb aboard the Candy Cane Express. The schedule runs December 11 and 12 with departures ate 91m, 11 am, 1 pm, and 3pm. Ride along with Santa and friends. Listen to stories, sing along to Christmas songs, and enjoy steamy mugs of hot cocoa paired with essential holiday cookies. Tickets begin at just $17.
